Neotropical Cichlid

Neotropical Cichlid are fish that range in behavior from pacifist to antagonistic; in fact, the names angels and devils are particularly appropriate. These cichlids require Allaire aquarium and plenty of food. They make a lot of mess and need large, regular water changes. Their real attraction is that many of them have an intelligence lacking in nearly all other fish - and most theatricals for that matter. These fish will move gravel and rocks with purpose - usually to stake out a territory and entice a mate. They recognize their owner, rushing to the tank glass for food when ever hoer she approaches, and often shun strangers. Some can be taught to perform simple tricks with the inducement of an extra meal, something these greedy beasts always appreciate. When these cichlids breed, they care for the free-swimming young for quite some time, defending the minute babies from all potential predators, often regardless of the predator's size. Unfortunately, most of the larger neotropical cichlids are much bigger and more aggressive than, say, the gentle angelfish. These brutes can fight and remove scales from each other with ease, and yet they are very popular in the home aquarium and, indeed, very easy to keep, provided their requirements are met. Firstly, they need an appropriately large tank, at least 90cm(36in) long, and even a tank this size will not house many specimens. Within this space they can exercise their normal territorial behavior; these fish become very possessive particular patch and will guard it fiercely from all rivals. Large cichlids eat a great deal of food and often make quite a mess wit hit. Large, regular water changes are therefore essential and a good mechanical filter to assist the biological filter is a help. Lastly, it is ago od idea to stock fish of varying sizes and co lour patterns if you want them to live together in relative peace, as these fish tend to be most aggressive towards loyalties.